Exercise Applies To The Mind As Well As The Body Nancy Imperiale Of The Orlando Sentinel

January 12, 1993|The Morning Call

As you get older, it's more important than ever to exercise.

Your brain, that is.

Evidence is mounting that mental fitness is as attainable -- and as critical -- as physical fitness for aging adults.

"We all live under the myth that being old is associated with senility," said Steve Paquet, director of Florida Hospital's Premier Health program for seniors. "But the mind is just like the body. If you keep it in shape with regular exercise and good nutrition, it will work better."

Most elderly people suffer no major loss of mental function, perhaps only some minor forgetfulness. When there is a decline, it's usually caused by health problems, experts say.

But does the brain work better if used a lot? Research on animals says so. And a study on human subjects in 1990 showed that seniors who engaged in mental exercises had increased blood flow to the brain. Although the notion of "use it or lose it" is not universally accepted, many health experts and seniors alike believe that it's true.

Whether such exercise involves artistic pursuits like painting, intellectual pursuits like seminars or social pursuits like seniors clubs doesn't make much difference, experts say.

Being passionate about the subject is the key. If you like something, you'll get more out of it.

The ideal education programs for the elderly are set at a slower pace. Aging brains tend to work a little slower. The brain cells, called neurons, don't process information as efficiently anymore.

Older adults with vision problems may need large-print reading material. Some seniors may be homebound and need transportation, or need classes held during the daytime.

The majority of older adults did not attend college in their youth and may need reassurances before they will set foot on college campuses.

"A surprisingly small number of senior citizens -- only 11 percent -- have college degrees," said Sylvia Liroff, manager of older adult education for the National Council on the Aging in Washington, D.C. "That's an awful lot of people who don't see a college campus as a comforting place."

But seeking out learning opportunities is well worth the effort, say seniors who have done so.